Carbondale dubs Bonnie Fisher Park

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The playground is gone from the site of the former Carbondale Elementary School, now the Third Street Center, but following unanimous approval Tuesday by Town Council, the grounds where the swings and merry-go-round once stood will bear the name of one of the school’s most beloved teachers: Bonnie Fisher.

“I think this is a great way to honor a respected member of our community,” said Mayor Stacey Bernot, a former student of Fisher’s.

The unanimous approval of a proposal may have surprised those used to frequently contentious world of small-town politics. After a 45-day notice period, no one came forward at the meeting to argue in favor of keeping the old name, “Community Partnership Park.”

The renaming petition, which had no trouble meeting the 30 signatures required by an August 2013 resolution, highlights just a few of Fisher’s accomplishments since joining the school district in 1970.

Fisher started the school newspaper, helped establish a Cinco de Mayo celebration at the school and was always at the forefront of technology. Parents and students remember her enthusiastic direction in assemblies, and she walks her kids before entire community in the annual Potato Day parade.

“For 44 years, Bonnie has dedicated her career and life to teaching our children to love learning, believe in themselves and to treat each other with respect,” the petition concluded. “Through her dedication to our community and school she has changed the character of our town.”

In the end, the only concern the board had was whether Fisher was comfortable with such a move. Assured that she was on board, Alexander Hobbs put forward the motion, Allyn Harvey seconded and the full board voiced approval for Bonnie Fisher Park.